Despite a personal admission of trying to adapt to life in the English second-tier, Etebo says he is relishing the challenges that comes with playing in the West Midlands.

“People back home always say the Premier League is hard but the Championship is a tough and demanding league to play in,” he added.

“You could play almost 65 matches in a season, if you include the Cup and play-off games as well. How is that any easier when you still go out to play international football for your country, too?

“You need to be physically and mentally strong to play in this league. I’ve played in Portugal and Spain, yet here you face a tough job but one I am really enjoying with Stoke.”

Etebo made his international debut for Nigeria in March 2016 and has won 19 caps, scoring once for the three-time African champions.

Named Caf’s most promising talent for 2015, Etebo was top scorer as Nigeria won the 2015 African U-23 championship and also scored four goals to help his country clinch bronze at the 2016 Rio Olympics football.